2009 Kia Borrego Review
2009 Kia Borrego Review
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Used Borrego for sale
Appraise This CarKia Borrego model years
- 2009
Kia Borrego for Sale
- 2009
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful engine choices, high towing capacity, decent fuel economy from V8, quiet ride.
Cons
- Handling can feel sloppy and disconnected, acceleration lags from slow upshifts and hesitant throttle, no power liftgate option.
What’s new
A new model for 2009, the Kia Borrego is a traditional midsize SUV that seats seven passengers. It's available with either a V6 or V8 engine as well as a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Edmunds says
For those who need the utility and towing capacity of a body-on-frame SUV, the 2009 Kia Borrego offers solid performance, respectable fuel economy and more luxurious appointments than many of its competitors.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Kia Borrego LX 4dr SUV (3.8L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$242/mo for Borrego LX
Borrego LX
vs
$207/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
There was a time not all that long ago when automakers couldn't crank out SUVs quickly enough. During the 1990s and into the new millennium, even companies that historically stuck to cars jumped on the SUV bandwagon, developing their own versions of utility vehicles to satisfy consumers' ravenous appetites for road-going monstrosities. But oh, how times have changed. As fuel prices continue to rise, more consumers are turning back toward smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles, and some automakers have even responded by cutting back production of their larger vehicles to focus on the small car market. But not Kia. The Korean company is betting there's still some life in the midsize SUV segment -- and the stakes are in the form of the new 2009 Kia Borrego.
Kia is hoping to lure customers to its seven-passenger, body-on-frame SUV with the promise of luxury at a value price. The Borrego is Kia's first model to offer gadgets such as voice-activated navigation, Bluetooth, keyless start and a back-up camera. Other options such as leather seating, an upgraded Infinity audio system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system may come as a surprise to shoppers who may have previously considered Kia strictly a bare-bones brand.
But the 2009 Borrego isn't just about appearances and gizmos; it has the chops of a true sport-utility vehicle. Unlike crossovers, traditional body-on-frame SUVs are generally able to handle rougher terrain and boast higher towing capacities. Available with either a V6 or a V8 engine, the Borrego comes standard with features such as downhill brake control and hill assist control, and ground clearance is on par for the segment. Four-wheel-drive models also come with the expected two-speed transfer case. Notably, the Borrego can also tow up to a class-leading 7,500 pounds. On the downside, the Borrego seems to miss the mark when it comes to some aspects of performance and handling, and its lack of a power liftgate makes one wonder how a brand touting its advanced features could have overlooked something so relatively common.
The 2009 Kia Borrego is up against long-running, top-selling midsize standbys such as the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Pathfinder. And on paper, the Kia looks like a worthy contender. The Borrego has a slightly lower base price than these competitors (although the V8 engine and various options can make it expensive), and offers all the necessities for an active family, such as a 60/40-folding second row and a 50/50-split third row. Its V8 boasts more horsepower than any of its other eight-cylinder rivals and still provides some of the best fuel economy in the segment. The Borrego also has the smallest turning circle, which in theory should make it a tad nimbler than the rest.
In short, those who actually need the stout capabilities of a traditional midsize SUV in the $20,000-$35,000 range might be pleasantly surprised by the 2009 Kia Borrego.
Performance & mpg
Two engine choices are available for the 2009 Kia Borrego: a 3.8-liter V6 that makes 276 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, and a 4.6-liter V8 that produces 337 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are available with either rear-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive. All six-cylinder models are paired to a five-speed automatic transmission, while the V8s get a six-speed automatic. A fully loaded V8 sprinted from zero to 60 mph on our test track in 7.8 seconds.
Towing capacities for a properly equipped Kia Borrego are 5,000 pounds for the V6 model and a class-leading 7,500 pounds for the V8. Estimated fuel economy for the 2009 Kia Borrego ranges from 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined for the rear-drive V6 powertrain down to 15/20/17 mpg for a 4WD V8.
Safety
Standard on the 2009 Kia Borrego are antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, downhill brake control, hill assist control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags with rollover sensor. Borregos equipped with the V8 engine also get a driver's knee airbag standard.
Driving
While the V8 engine has plenty of power and adequate torque on the low end, the throttle seems slow to respond, and taller ratios in the upper gears (ostensibly to optimize fuel economy) can leave you wondering when the transmission will finally shift. And although the V8 Borrego boasts more power than its similarly equipped competitors, its peak power arrives higher in the rev band. The combination of these factors dulls the performance potential and can lead to some frustrating moments when trying to merge onto the freeway or make it uphill at cruising speed.
Like many body-on-frame SUVs, there is a disconnected feeling from the road, but this seems particularly true in the Borrego's case. We assume two factors are to blame here. The rubber mounts between the body and frame, while they help absorb some shock and keep the vehicle quiet, contribute to a somewhat sloppy feel when going over bumps and potholes. Secondly, the suspension calibrations obviously have an even greater effect on ride quality. However, to be fair, our test model was an early production unit earmarked for test purposes that may not represent the final production version.
Interior
Materials and features inside the 2009 Kia Borrego are more luxurious than one might expect. The understated cabin is simple and refined, while a logical dash layout keeps the various controls relatively easy to use. The optional leather seats, though not on par with a Hermes handbag, are comfortable and supportive. The third-row seats are relatively easy to stow and put back into place, although cargo capacity with all seats up is a paltry 12.4 cubic feet. And the Borrego's lack of a power liftgate is disappointing, especially considering Kia's "more luxury for the money" claim.
2009 Kia Borrego models
The 2009 Kia Borrego midsize SUV is available in two main trim levels, LX and EX. Rear-drive Borrego LX V6 models come standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, a back-up warning system, an integrated tow hitch, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt/telescoping steering column and a six-speaker audio system with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, USB port and auxiliary jack. The EX V6 trim adds foglights, heated outside mirrors, an eight-way power driver seat, a four-way power passenger seat, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Borrego V8 models are also offered in the same LX and EX trim levels and are very similar in terms of equipment, but come standard with 18-inch wheels. Four-wheel-drive models are equipped similarly and also have a windshield de-icer.
In terms of options, there's a Convenience Package for LX models that adds leather seating and a power driver seat. Two additional option packages, Luxury and Premium, are available exclusively on the EX. The Luxury Package includes chrome wheels, leather upholstery, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, a memory function for the driver seat and heated front seats. The Premium Package adds running boards, a sunroof, a 10-speaker Infinity audio system, rear air-conditioning controls and a rear back-up camera. Additional options for the EX include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and voice-activated navigation.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#9 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Kia Borrego from 2008-2022.$369/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.06x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).15.3%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Kia Borrego.
5 star(79%)
4 star(18%)
3 star(3%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
71 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
A Real Sleeper!
adomaib, 06/11/2013
2009 Kia Borrego LX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.8L 6cyl 5A)
We have been a KIA family since our first Sedona
12+ years ago and currently own a Soul and a Rio.
I was always intrigued by the Borrego but timing, finances and and model availability never seemed to come together; until this Memorial Day.
We bought a 2009 LX AWD 6 cylinder with 29000 miles.
We immediately took off on a 1000 mile driving trip to Northern Minnesota for a week.
The … Borrego met our every expectation.
It was comfortable, roomy for all our gear, quiet, and it handled much better than all the negative reviews about "rough ride" would lead you to expect.
Acceleration with the 6 cylinder is more than brisk, and our gas mileage for the trip was 21.9.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Wonderful!!!
asiel1, 08/27/2011
2009 Kia Borrego LX 4dr SUV (3.8L 6cyl 5A)
This is my first SUV.
I purchased it last November after my car was totaled. We have driven this car home to Louisiana (8 hours) Jacksonville Fl (13) and Colorado Springs(13).-- one way trips.
The car drove beautifully and was comfortable for my three kids. - 18,13, and 10.
The only complaint I have had is shifiting into gear in
the mountains, it drags a bit.
-- and occasionally the … downhill and traction control button comes on, but other than that nothing.
The hankook tires are okay, but wear out quickly--41,000 for me and will be replaced with Michelins.
All in all, I love this car.
buy one and never look back.
I plan on driving mine for years!
5 out of 5 stars
Best Buy Ever! Super Reliable! No Issues!
Kenneth, 03/06/2016
2009 Kia Borrego LX 4dr SUV (3.8L 6cyl 5A)
I got rid of my CTS and wanted to get into an SUV. I wanted either an Acura or Lexus, which is completely night and day from a Kia. As soon as I test drove it for the first time, sale rep advised me of the warranty and seen the price, I gave it a shot. My 2009 Kia Borrego EX has 134,000 miles and rides like a baby. All i've done was maintained with the oil changes, purchased new tires … and that's it! Best deal ever!
5 out of 5 stars
Loyal Friend
Ron, 11/25/2017
2009 Kia Borrego LX 4dr SUV 4WD (3.8L 6cyl 5A)
We have owned our KIA Borrego since 2010 (8 years). Currently has 208k miles and still running strong. It has been a reliable, low maintenance vehicle through years of Boy Scout camping trips, family vacations, cross country road trips, and long distance and local work commutes. If Borrego were still being made in US I would buy another one.
2009 Borrego Highlights
LX
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $26,245 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $242/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 12.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Borrego include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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